Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Heineman on the Stadium Site

Wizards president, Robb Heineman was on Between the Lines today in Kansas City and talked about the development going on right now at the Bannister Mall site. You can listen to the full interview here. Some good information in the interview, some that was already known, and some good new information as well. Here are some highlights for those that don't have time to listen.

Two more years at CAB, the hope is to have the stadium open for first kick 2011.

Heineman said that they are close to a major company relocating to KC to be the major tenant in the next 60 days or so.

18,000+ seats, with it being expandable to 30,000 for concerts and such. They want the stadium to become the number 1 outdoor concert venue in Kansas City. While he said that, Heineman made sure to emphasize that it is a soccer stadium.

Free parking at the new stadium due to the retail around it.

Want to get people to come out 365, they want people to come to tournaments, stay at the hotel, go to the restaurants, go to the Wizards game, and at the end of the weekend have a single bill.

A lot of talking about comparing it as an eastern version of the Legends.

Pushing for the MLS Cup or All Star game to be hosted in KC in 2012 or 2013 in conjucture with the entire project being done (goal is January 1, 2012 for the entire project being done).

There was very little opposition from people in the community, really it was on the Save Bannister group. Neighborhood groups and local chamber of commerce were completely behind the project.

Some good news from Heineman, a good listen if you have 25 minutes for it.